1-16

1. Describe the strengths (geographic, political, social, etc.) of the young nation at the time of its birth.

2. Describe the weaknesses of the nation (political, social, etc.) at the time of its birth.

3. Ellis lists four reasons why the founding generation was able to set up such a successful and enduring political order; explain them in your own words.

4. The Duel is the only chapter not in chronological order and it serves as an overview of the themes of the book. What does this event reveal about the personalities, and relationships of the “founding brothers” as well as the new nation as a whole?

5. What agreement was reached between Hamilton and Madison and Jeffery's dinner party?why was this significant?

6. Why was the slavery question left unsolved at the constitutional convention? What did the founders decided to do about slavery?

7. How does Ellis characterize Washington's presidency?

8. What are the main themes of Washington's farewell address?

9. What kind of influence did Abigail Adams have on her husband and his friend, Thomas Jefferson?

10. What differences led to the break in Adams and Jeffersons friendship? How was their friendship restored?

11. In our political era, comprimise seems a lost art. Explain an example of how the men of this revolutionary generation compromised in order to resolve a serious dispute.

12. These men are often mythologized into gods. Point out some of their human weaknesses.

13. Who do you think was the greatest or most surprising leader and why?

14. History was often condemned these men for proclaiming high ideals about freedoms but not eradicating slavery. Do you share this view? Explain using specific information from this book.

15. The founding generation was aware that history would be watching them. What evidence could you see of this? Did this seem to have positive or, negative effects?

16. Finally, which chapter did you find enlightening/interesting or informative the most and why?